Model Emily Barker Creates Visibility For Disabled People
Activist Emily Barker Talks Fashion Runways: "There Should Be More Than 1 Disabled Person in Each Show"
1
Barker hopes to work with Gucci soon, whether it's rolling for the runway show or posing for a campaign. In the meantime, they're also focussed on spreading awareness by starting conversations about ableism that our society can benefit from.
"Designers should include disabled people as a norm, not just a one time thing, and they should make all of their stores, shoots, and runways accessible."
"Until the built-in environment is constructed with people with bodies like mine in mind, we will never be able to have equality or participate in fashion the way able bodied people are. We need disabled designers and accessible sewing machines. We need clothes made with the brutality of using a chair and having paralysis in mind. But most importantly, we need the same human rights as everyone else," Barker said, continuing, "[Disabled people] are the largest minority. There should be more than one disabled person in each show. Designers should include disabled people as a norm, not just a one time thing, and they should make all of their stores, shoots, and runways accessible. Collina Strada and 3234u are doing it right." Through Barker's own wardrobe, it's clear these are two labels they love, but they've also curated a handful of their favourite outfits posted to date, along with detailed descriptions of each, for your inspiration and mood board. Check them all out ahead.